ExpreS2ion Biotechnologies has selected Northway Biotech as its cGMP contract development and manufacturing organisation (CDMO) for its Nipah virus vaccine candidate.
The programme is being developed as part of an EU-funded Horizon Europe consortium project, supported under the European Union’s competitive research and innovation framework and addressing a pathogen that has recently caused renewed outbreaks in South Asia.
Nipah virus (NiV) is a zoonotic pathogen classified by the World Health Organization as a priority disease due to its epidemic potential, high case fatality rates, and the absence of approved vaccines or specific treatments. Infection can cause severe respiratory illness and fatal encephalitis, with reported case fatality rates historically ranging from approximately 40% to 75% depending on outbreak conditions and access to clinical care.
Nipah virus outbreaks have occurred intermittently for many years, particularly in parts of India and Bangladesh. In recent weeks, confirmed cases have again been reported in India’s West Bengal and Kerala states.
In response, health authorities have implemented containment measures including isolation of affected individuals, extensive contact tracing, quarantine of close contacts, strengthened infection-control protocols in healthcare settings, and domestic travel advisories.
Beyond India, several Asian countries including Thailand, Nepal, and Taiwan have introduced enhanced health screening at international airports and border crossings for travellers arriving from affected regions, reflecting heightened regional vigilance.
Northway Biotech was selected as ExpreS2ion’s manufacturing partner based on its established familiarity with ExpreS2ion’s recombinant protein vaccine platform, including successful execution of a closely related ExpreS2ion-led vaccine program within defined timelines.
The selection builds on a well-established working relationship between the two organizations across development, manufacturing, and quality functions. Manufacturing activities for the Nipah program are planned to commence in Q1 2026 and target completion by the end of 2026.
The CDMO selection represents a key operational milestone in preparing the program for cGMP manufacture and subsequent development activities.
